As a Surrey maternity photographer, I get asked this question all the time: “Should I do my maternity shoot alone, or include my partner and children?” The short answer is: there’s no right or wrong — it’s all about what feels meaningful to you. In this post, I’ll walk you through the benefits of each option, what works best in a studio maternity photoshoot, and how to make your session feel relaxed, natural, and memorable.
Why a Solo Maternity Photoshoot Can Be Powerful
A solo maternity photoshoot is a beautiful way to celebrate you and your body during this incredible time. It’s a chance to slow down, reflect, and honour the transition into motherhood — to pause and focus entirely on the life growing inside you.
Many mums choose solo sessions because they want this moment to be theirs alone. Some partners don’t want to be in the photos, or life just feels easier without coordinating extra people — and that’s completely fine. A solo session lets you embrace your pregnancy fully, capturing the strength, beauty, and transformation of your body.
Including Your Partner: Capturing Your Shared Journey
Including your partner adds a layer of intimacy and connection to your maternity photos. It’s a beautiful way to document the bond between you both and your baby before they arrive.
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Shared anticipation: Capturing your partner holding your bump or interacting with you naturally conveys love and excitement.
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Candid moments: I often capture laughter, whispers, or gentle touches that feel authentic and emotional.
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Storytelling: Including your partner creates images that tell a fuller story of your growing family.
In my studio, I guide couples into relaxed poses that feel natural — no stiff “look at the camera” shots. My goal is always to capture the chemistry and closeness between you, so your photos feel authentic.
Including Children: Creating Family Memories
Many families choose to include older children in their maternity sessions, and these often produce some of the most joyful and memorable images. Capturing your children interacting with your bump is a beautiful way to show their excitement, curiosity, and connection with the baby before they arrive. Kids bring spontaneity to the session — from giggles to hugs to playful movements — creating lively, natural moments.
Including them also allows you to preserve the family as it is in these last few weeks before the big change, creating photographs that show the bond and dynamic you share right now. I take care to make sure children feel comfortable and engaged, guiding them gently or encouraging playful interactions so their smiles and reactions feel authentic and heartfelt.
Can I Combine Solo, Partner, and Family Shots in One Session?
Absolutely! Many of my clients start with solo portraits, then bring in their partner and finally include children. This approach gives a variety of images: elegant solo shots, intimate couple images, and fun family portraits — all in one relaxed studio session. For those who want a shorter session, my “Just Us” package is perfect for solo or partner-only portraits. If you’d like to include children and capture the whole family, my “With Little Ones” package is 60 minutes, giving us plenty of time to create natural, relaxed, maternity images together.
How to Decide What’s Right for You
When choosing between solo, partner, or family maternity photos, think about:
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Your goals: Do you want intimate solo portraits, romantic couple shots, or full family memories?
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Your comfort level: Some mums feel more relaxed solo, while others love sharing the moment.
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Practical considerations: Including children adds time and energy, but can be managed with a photographer experienced in studio maternity sessions.
As a Surrey maternity photographer, my role is to guide you so the session feels comfortable and fun, no matter who you include.